Harry Maguire has been omitted from England's 26-man World Cup squad by manager Thomas Tuchel, a decision that has left the Manchester United defender astonished. Tuchel is set to officially announce his squad for the tournament in the United States tomorrow morning, and Maguire will not be part of it.
Maguire's Reaction
The 33-year-old centre-back, who has revitalised his career this season under Michael Carrick at Manchester United, expressed his disbelief. In an interview with talkSPORT, he stated: 'I was confident I could have played a major part this summer for my country after the season I've had. I've been left shocked and gutted by the decision. I wish the players all the best.'
Contenders for the Squad
In contrast, Levi Colwill, the 23-year-old Chelsea centre-back who has missed most of the season with an ACL injury, was included on Tuchel's 55-man long list last week and remains in contention for the final squad.
Legal Shadow
Maguire's omission comes amid ongoing repercussions from a 2020 incident in Mykonos. Earlier this year, he received a 15-month suspended sentence after being found guilty of non-serious assault, resisting arrest, and attempted bribery following a retrial in Greece. The prosecutors have called for him to be barred from the World Cup.
Ioannis Paradissis, lawyer for the police officers involved, told Daily Mail Sport: 'Our clients' position is that, in light of his conviction and the fact that he now has a criminal record for violent crimes — even if he lodges an appeal on points of law only — Mr Maguire should not be permitted to continue representing higher-level sports teams, including participation in the Premier League or international competitions such as the World Cup.'
Paradissis also highlighted potential travel issues: 'We also understand there is a game scheduled in the United States. Since he now holds a criminal record, it is highly unlikely he would be granted a visa or ESTA. This would, in any event, prevent him from travelling to or competing there and thus be a problem for his team.'
Maguire has called the case a 'shambles' and plans to appeal. More updates are expected as the story develops.
